Boating is fun, but it’s important that it's also safe. Whether it’s a fishing boat, a canoe or kayak, or a personal watercraft, there are some basic safety tips that apply to all.

According to the National Safe Boating Council, learning to swim is one of the most important ways to stay safe on the water. But even expert swimmers can get into trouble. It’s important to be sure that everyone in the watercraft is wearing a life jacket.